College of Science

and Engineering
Prospectus 2021/2022
Table of Contents

About HBKU 3
About CSE 11
College Programs 25
Admissions 49
Student Funding 54
Contact Information 56
About HBKU
 About HBKU

Innovating Today,
Shaping Tomorrow
Excellence
Recognition of Quality Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member
through Excellence
of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and
Community Development (QF), was founded in
2010 to continue fulfilling QF’s vision of unlocking
human potential.
HBKU is a homegrown research and graduate
studies university that acts as a catalyst for
positive transformation in Qatar and the region
The university provides an array of graduate
programs through its College of Islamic Studies,
College of Humanities and Social Sciences,
College of Science and Engineering, College of
Law, College of Health and Life Sciences, and
College of Public Policy.
HBKU is also home to three research institutes
– Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI),

People Innovation
while having a global impact. Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI), and
Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute
Located within Education City, HBKU seeks to (QEERI) – which together with the colleges are
Shaping Society Leading Transformation
provide unparalleled opportunities where inquiry at the forefront of efforts to seek novel solutions
and discovery are integral to teaching and learning to grand challenges facing Qatar and the region.
at all levels, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach
across its focus areas. Additionally, HBKU’s Executive Education Center
delivers customized programs for the business
community of Qatar and the region.

Partners
Success through Synergy

4 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 5


“ As a student at HBKU, you have the opportunity to
6 College of Science and Engineering
About HBKU
Why Study at HBKU?
play a key role at an institution which, at its heart, is
committed to innovating today and shaping tomorrow.”
At Hamad Bin Khalifa University, our people are our
greatest strength, and when students enroll in one
of our academic programs, they become part of a
thriving community that is committed to the pursuit
of excellence and innovation. HBKU has a mandate
to build and cultivate human capacity by offering
students an enriching academic experience that
extends beyond the classroom. By utilizing unique
collaborations with local and international partners,
we aim to tackle the challenges of the region and
the world through interdisciplinary education and
innovative research.
HBKU is proud to offer students the opportunity
to learn from world-renowned faculty and industry
leaders through our colleges and our three national
research institutes, providing the knowledge, skills
and experience necessary to become experts in
Prospectus 2021/2022
their chosen fields, and take their careers to the next
level. HBKU is situated in a regional economic and
cultural hub, and our students benefit greatly from
exposure to diverse perspectives as they determine
how to use their degrees to positively contribute
to their own development and that of their
communities, whether in Qatar or across the world.
Additionally, HBKU benefits from an exceptional
student-to-faculty ratio and from being based in
Education City – a unique hub of learning that offers
students a wealth of opportunities to play an active
role in a vibrant multicultural environment.
As a student at HBKU, you have the opportunity
to play a key role at an institution that, at its
heart, is committed to innovating today and
shaping tomorrow.
7
 About HBKU | Why Study at HBKU?

Research

Research is the cornerstone of Hamad Bin Khalifa

University’s commitment to building human
capacity through interdisciplinary education and
innovation that supports Qatar’s journey towards
sustainable growth. HBKU’s interdisciplinary
research and education environment is
distinguished by a unique synergy among the
colleges and research institutes.

The university’s students, faculty, and researchers

work within an ecosystem that addresses
challenges of national priority and contributes
to outcomes with a tangible impact on society.
Collectively, they are achieving breakthroughs in
the fields of biomedicine, genomics and precision
medicine, information and communications
technology and sustainability, while advancing
knowledge across the humanities, Islamic studies,
law, and public policy.

At each of the six colleges, students work under the

guidance of faculty to conduct research that results
in tangible solutions and innovative outcomes.

8 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 9

 About CSE

10 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 11

 About CSE

College Overview

The College of Science and Engineering currently

offers the largest selection of programs within the
university. All of its programs involve collaboration
with HBKU’s prestigious research institutes, utilizing
the skills of expert scientists, and with external
world-renowned academics and industrial partners
strengthening the link between education and
societal and economic needs and maximizing
students’ employability.

Divisions
The College of Science and Engineering is home to
` Division of Engineering Management
and Decision Sciences
` Division of Sustainable Development
` Division of Information and Computing Technology

The divisions are firmly committed to excellence in

graduate teaching and the training of highly qualified
students in cutting-edge areas of knowledge across
multiple disciplines. CSE’s faculty members are
internationally recognized in pursuing high-impact
research addressing societal and economic needs
in Qatar and globally.

12 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 13

 About CSE
Students and Alumni
Division of Information and Computing Technology
The division’s programs attract students with
a strong academic background and who are
ambitious, innovative and of high caliber. Those
who are actively pursuing a master’s degree
within the division have a solid background
in computer science, computer engineering,
electrical engineering, information systems,
or related health fields. Applicants seeking
admission should demonstrate strong evidence
that they possess the qualities to become
successful researchers, industry professionals
and innovators. Experience in the healthcare
sector is preferred for applicants to the Master
of Data Analytics (MDA) in Health Management
and the Master of Information Systems in
Health Management. Students enrolled in the
PhD programs are also required to have strong
academic and vocational experience.
14 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022
Graduates in the Information and Computing
Technology Division may choose to:
` Advance their academic career through pursuing
higher degrees or seeking academic positions
at reputable universities.
` Become research scientists, data analysts,
cybersecurity professionals, or software
engineers at leading, international research labs.
` Engage in technology start-ups as CTOs, CIOs,
or CEOs.
` Pursue career paths in the IT sector, industries
linked to data analytics, cybersecurity, health
informatics and management, as well as
research centers.
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About CSE | Students and Alumni

Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences (EMDS) Division of Sustainable Development

The EMDS division is at the core of engineering, Graduates of the EMDS may choose to pursue The Division of Sustainable Development offers Graduates of the Division of Sustainable
business, and data analytics. The graduate careers in: four different programs with rigorous and highly Development may choose to pursue careers
programs within the EMDS are multidisciplinary ` Academia and education selective admissions criteria. The division actively in various sectors such as:
programs that expose students to innovative ` Research institutes or startups seeks top students in Qatar and the region, ` Academia and Education
decision-making methodologies and technologies ` Logistics and supply chain industries with academic backgrounds that are as diverse ` Governmental Ministries
that are influencing our everyday life. The objective ` Governmental ministries and agencies as their nationalities. ` International Agencies
of these programs is to attract diverse and ` Oil and gas, manufacturing, transportation, ` Think-tanks
outstanding students from Qatar, the region and or cargo ` Finance, Investment and Banking
the world to develop cutting edge research. ` Sports related companies and industries ` Healthcare sector
` Energy
` Utilities (water, gas, electricity)
` Oil and Gas
` Manufacturing
` Transportation
` Airline
` Automotive
` Consultancy

16 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 17

 About CSE
Faculty and Research Areas
Division of Information and Computing Technology
Faculty members in CSE’s Division of Information
and Computing Technology are involved in
innovative research that seeks to address pressing
issues in Qatar and the region. Additionally, they
conduct large-scale research projects that drive
significant contributions at an international level.
Faculty are involved in:
` Big data analytics and machine learning
` Artificial Intelligence
` Computer vision
` Signal and image processing
` Cybersecurity, data privacy,
and cyber-physical systems
18 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022
` Secure data management, applied
cryptography, and blockchain
` Next generation wireless networks
and mobile computing
` Human-computer interaction
` Sensors, biomedical circuits, and
very-large-scale integration (VLSI)
` Social computing and multimedia
` Quantum computing
` Scientific visualization and visual computing
` Computational Bioinformatics
` Digital Health/Health Informatics
` Software Engineering
` Technology and Human Behavior
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About CSE | Faculty and Research Areas
Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences (EMDS)
The division of EMDS is home to the MSc/PhD
in Logistics and supply chain Management
and the MSc in Sports and Entertainment
Management (joint program with the University
of South Carolina). It is a multi-disciplinary unit
designed to progress the interaction between
humans, machines, management systems,
infrastructure, and the global environment. In
addition to its excellence in its core programs,
one of the strengths of the EMDS division is its
multidisciplinary research and teaching methods,
which can cut across CSE programs within the
Division of Information and Computing Technology
and the Division of Sustainable Development.
The mission of the EMDS division is to develop
core expertise in engineering and business
decision- making processes dealing with products,
services, transportation, information, and cash
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flows within sports, entertainment, logistics and
supply chain management. The EMDS Division
is a catalyst for new research streams, which
involves big data, AI, manufacturing and operations
research. The creation of multidisciplinary teams
is a major focus, allowing the division to attract
the necessary resources to maintain and build
the requisite technologies to support its research
goals. Through collaborations, the technologies
and expertise within the division benefit a wide
range of research themes within HBKU. Strong
industry and academia collaboration is a key driver
for the division where research development at
HBKU finds a home within industry. The division’s
faculty members are internationally recognized
and pursue high-impact research in multiple
areas related to sports, logistics, supply chain
management, financial modelling, Green supply
chains and logistics, and manufacturing.
College of Science and Engineering
Division of Sustainable Development
CSE’s Division of Sustainable Development is
home to world-renowned faculty members, who
are experts in their respective fields. Working
collectively, they actively pursue research in areas
that are becoming exceedingly critical for national
and regional progression.
Prospectus 2021/2022
Faculty of the Sustainable Development Division
are involved in:
` Renewable energy technologies and policies
` Smart power grids
` Oil and gas technology and economics
` Energy-water-food nexus
` Desalination, water treatment and water reuse
` Environmental biotechnology
` Air Quality
` Green buildings and sustainable urban planning
` Energy and resource efficiency
` Demand-side management, social behavior
change, progressive policy-making
and cultural contexts
` Sustainable Economy and Financing
` Biomass and waste management
` Nano-technology, nano-materials and
nano-manufacturing
` Computational materials
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About CSE

At a Glance

13 Programs 382 Students

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering across the College
PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
PhD in Sustainable Energy
PhD in Sustainable Environment
Master of Data Analytics in Health Management
Master of Information Systems in Health Management
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Master of Science in Data Science and Engineering
60+ Nationalities
Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management across HBKU
Master of Science in Sport and Entertainment Management
Master of Science in Sustainable Energy
Master of Science in Sustainable Environment
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Qatari Students (33%)

255 CSE Alumni

22 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 23
 College
Programs
College Programs
Division of Information and Computing Technology
PhD in Computer Science
and Engineering
CSE’s PhD program in Computer Science and
Engineering provides students with a solid,
fundamental and advanced education, as well
as strong research experience and a broad
understanding of aspects related to computer science
and engineering that will translate into exciting,
challenging, and well-compensated job opportunities
in this high-demand field.
The program aims to equip students with up-to-date
knowledge of computer science and engineering, as
well as the methods, tools, and technologies needed to
explore this rapidly evolving field.
The program provides a broad, multidisciplinary and
research-intensive education at the boundary of
computer science and engineering, while providing
specialization streams in contemporary fields that are
globally important and relevant to Qatar. These fields
include systems and computer security, software
engineering, computational sciences, computer
systems, architecture and very-large-scale integration
(VLSI), robotics machine perception, sensing
technologies, human-computer interface (HCI),
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‘big data’ and data analytics, machine learning and
artificial intelligence, computer vision and graphics,
technology and Behavior, software engineering, as well
as wireless and mobile computing and networking,
bioinformatics and health informatics.
Program Focus
` This program focuses on the core skills needed to
build a successful, advanced career in computer
science, engineering and technology-related areas.
It explores research methods, applied data analytics,
advanced algorithms and data structure, computer
architecture and VLSI, ethics, technical writing,
and a number of relevant specialties.
` Students are required to conduct original and guided
research with faculty supervision that concentrates
on the contemporary issues in computer science
and engineering which are globally important and
also relevant to Qatar.
` The program provides our students with a broad
understanding of the field, together with the flexibility
to specialize in contemporary and up-to- date areas
of computer science and engineering.
College of Science and Engineering
Curriculum
This program comprises a minimum of 54 credits
taught in English and requires a master’s degree
in Computer Science or Engineering, Electrical
Engineering, or related fields; it can be completed
typically in three to four years.
` Two core courses to provide students coming
from diverse backgrounds with a coherent learning
environment that enables them to tackle complex
issues in computer science and engineering.
The core courses are:
` Research Methods and Ethics in ICT
` Applied Data Analytics
One of the following two courses is required to
complete the three-core course requirement,
depending on whether the student is interested
in a hardware or software research area:
` Principles of Computer System Design
` Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures
Prospectus 2021/2022
` Three elective courses covering some engineering
and science fundamentals plus a variety of
computer science and engineering electives,
which provide students with a solid base to
fully understand different aspects of computer
science and engineering and the interrelations
between them.
` Two semesters of graduate research seminars.
` A research thesis with a minimum of 36-credits
under the supervision of an adviser and a PhD
dissertation committee.
PhD students should additionally:
` Pass a qualifying examination in their third semester
` Successfully defend their thesis proposal to
the committee
` Successfully complete a PhD dissertation
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College Programs
Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences
Master of Science and PhD Programs in
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
The Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy
(PhD) programs in Logistics and Supply Chain
Management (LSCM) offer innovative
multidisciplinary curricula featuring a unique
learning and research experience for students.
During the course of their academic studies at
CSE’s Division of Engineering Management
and Decision Sciences, students will develop
essential skills and a knowledge of engineering,
management, and decision-making processes.
Currently, there are no postgraduate academic
programs on offer in Qatar and very few in the
region focused in the area of logistics and supply
chain management, to prepare and train increasingly
needed human capital. The programs are specifically
aimed at building high-quality academic and
entrepreneurial capacities to cope with the aggressive
rate of change and expansion of supply chains, in
addition to the challenges associated with the scaling
of industrial systems. Notably, students will benefit
from working with stakeholders from government,
industry, and academia.
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Program Focus
Logistics and supply chain management focuses
on activities such as transportation, procurement,
distribution, maintenance, green supply chains,
manufacturing and system design, data analytics,
operations, product development, and customer service.
Overall, the programs are designed to be:
` Multidisciplinary: Students will acquire a range
of essential skills to successfully lead and make
informed business decisions based on analytics,
supply chain optimization, manufacturing and
system design, identification of optimal logistics
choices, and finally contributing to guiding
organizational and state policies.
` Conducive to building management and leadership
skills: Students will develop the skills necessary to
drive the logistics and supply chain management
fields in Qatar and beyond. Students will be exposed to
a well-rounded and holistic approach to education with
opportunities to specialize in important knowledge
areas in logistics and supply chain management.
College of Science and Engineering
` Research-oriented: Research is an integral part
of the programs through which students draw on
their knowledge, compile original data, test their
hypotheses, and develop a research thesis that helps
them advance local and regional insight into logistics
and supply chain management.
Curriculum
Master of Science in Logistics and Supply
Chain Management:
A 33-credit full-time program taught in English
typically over two years, that includes:
` Three core courses
` Five elective courses (six if undertaking
an industrial project)
` A nine-credit research thesis or a six-credit
industrial/applied project
` Two semesters of graduate research seminars
Prospectus 2021/2022
PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management:
A 54-credit program taught in English, typically
over three years and requires a master’s degree.
The program includes:
` Three core courses
` Three elective courses
` Three semesters of graduate research seminars
` A minimum of 36-credit research thesis
under the supervision of an adviser and a PhD
dissertation committee
PhD students should additionally pass:
` A qualifying examination in their third semester
` A candidacy examination (dissertation proposal)
in their fifth semester
` Successfully defend their final dissertation to the
public and their dissertation committee
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College Programs
Division of Sustainable Development
Master of Science and PhD Programs
in Sustainable Energy
Sustainable Energy Master’s and PhD programs
provide students with extensive knowledge in topics
related to sustainable energy, energy-economy
interdependencies, urbanization, transportation and
manufacturing on energy and overall sustainable
development. The programs also look at the
implications and drivers of sustainable policy-making
on society, the economy, and the environment.
A key component for both degrees is original, guided
research in energy science, technologies and policies
that support sustainable development.
The multidisciplinary approach to the curricula
allows for engagement in cross-disciplinary science
and builds fundamental knowledge that evolves
with developments in the energy field, equipping
graduates with the tools needed to pursue a wide
variety of career paths.
30
Program Focus
` Skills to build a successful career in science,
engineering, technology and developmental studies
including ethics, technical writing, research methods,
data analytics, and advanced computing methods.
` Fundamentals of energy engineering, sciences
and technologies for sustainability.
` Fossil fuel energy use and environmental impact.
` Engineering and scientific development of renewable
green energy.
` Energy storage, distribution and consumption
efficiency.
` Social and economic aspects of sustainability
including, but not limited to, demand side
management, efficiency, human capacity building,
sustainable financing, and policymaking.
College of Science and Engineering
Curriculum
Master of Science in Sustainable Energy:
A 33-credit full-time program taught in English
over two years, that includes:
` Three core courses
` Five elective courses (six if taking industrial/
applied thesis/project)
` A nine-credit research thesis or
` Two graduate research seminars
The master’s program can be customized to focus
on different aspects of sustainable energy such as
renewable energy systems, conventional energy
systems, energy and mobility, energy and urbanization,
and energy and the environment.
Prospectus 2021/2022
PhD in Sustainable Energy:
A 54-credit program taught in English, typically
over three years and requires a master’s degree.
The program includes:
` Three core courses
` Three elective courses
` Three semesters of graduate research seminars
` A minimum 36-credit research thesis under the
supervision of an adviser and a PhD dissertation
committee
PhD students should additionally pass:
` A qualifying examination in their third semester
` A candidacy examination (dissertation proposal)
in their fifth semester
` Publish minimum two original research papers
in scopus-indexed journals
` Successfully defend their final dissertation to
the public and their dissertation committee
31
College Programs
Division of Sustainable Development
Master of Science and PhD Programs
in Sustainable Environment
CSE’s Sustainable Environment master’s and PhD
programs provide students with extensive knowledge
in topics related to sustainable environment issues.
These include the effect of human development
on the environment; the causes, impact and control
of pollution (air, land, water); and the demands
of a growing global and regional population
and economic development on natural resources
and the environment.
Students conduct original and guided environmental
research that concentrates on issues surrounding
the support of sustainable development.
The multidisciplinary approach to the curricula
builds fundamental knowledge that evolves with
the developments within the field, equipping
graduates with the tools needed to pursue a wide
variety of career paths.
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Program Focus
` Core skills to build a successful career in science,
engineering and technology-related areas, including
ethics, technical writing, research methods, data
analytics, and advanced computing methods.
` Fundamentals of sustainable development and
human-environment interactions related to policy,
social issues, engineering and technology, and the
fundamentals of environmental processes.
` Water demand, resource management, and
treatment processes.
` Air emission sources and how these relate to
human activity, as well as the impact on human
health, economic and social development; and the
chemistry, cause and mitigation of key pollutants.
` Explore the impact of human activities such as
industrial development, energy generation, water
treatment, food production and manufacturing,
transportation on land, water and air, including
solid and hazardous waste generation and disposal.
` Social and economic aspects of sustainability
including demand side management, efficiency,
human capital, financing, and policymaking.
College of Science and Engineering
Curriculum PhD students should additionally pass:
Master of Science in Sustainable Environment: ` A qualifying examination in their third semester
A 33-credit full-time program, taught in English ` A candidacy examination (dissertation proposal)
over two years, that includes: in their fifth semester
` Three core courses ` Publish minimum two original research papers
` Five elective courses (six if undertaking an in scopus-indexed journals
industrial project) ` Successfully defend their final dissertation to
` A nine-credit research thesis or a six-credit the public and their dissertation committee
industrial/applied project
` Two semesters of graduate research seminars
PhD in Sustainable Environment:
A 54-credit program taught in English, typically
over three years and requires a masterʼs degree.
The program includes:
` Three core courses as per the MS program
` Three elective courses
` Three semesters of graduate research seminars
` A minimum of 36-credit research thesis
under the supervision of an adviser and a PhD
dissertation committee
Prospectus 2021/2022 33
College Programs
Division of Information and Computing Technology
Master Of Data Analytics
in Health Management
The Master of Data Analytics in Health Management
(MDA-HM) program is the first of its kind in the
world and aims to train talented scientists and
researchers to effectively contribute to the design
and implementation of data analytic tools in health
care systems in Qatar and beyond. The HBKU MDA-
HM program aims to equip students with knowledge
of the latest advances in the tools and principles
of big data handling and analysis and their application
in managing the ever-growing health data.
During the course of their studies at CSE, students
will undergo specialized training that will equip them
to develop advanced and effective strategies and
policies to enhance preventive care, reduce per
capita cost of patient care, and enhance progress
in diagnostics and medical research leading to
the development of more efficient healthcare systems.
Uniquely, the program will also give students a myriad
of opportunities to collaborate with professionals
from relevant industrial and government sectors
around the world, inspiring the student body with
positive qualities of leadership, social consciousness,
integrity, and general ethics.
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Program Focus
Combining data analytics with health care
management for the first time, the MDA-HM program
uniquely focuses on educating students on the latest
advances in the tools and technologies involved in big
data analytics for health management applications.
Furthermore, the program aims to train participants in
various applied techniques, methodologies, and tools
to effectively manage and analyze the constant growth
of health data, in order to drive higher productivity in
the healthcare sector.
Enrolled students will:
` Develop core knowledge in data analytics. Students
will acquire essential skills for scientific studies,
research work, and decision-making through
undergoing core courses that include artificial
intelligence in healthcare, principles of health
informatics, computational bioinformatics, and
research methods and ethics in health and genomics.
College of Science and Engineering
` Master big data systems for multiple disciplines,
exploring the impact of examining big data (large
datasets containing a variety of data types for health
or other applications).
` Furthermore, students will be trained to master
state-of-the-art tools and methodologies in
uncovering hidden patterns, unknown correlations,
market trends, customer preferences and other
useful business information from big data.
` Study ethics involved in data analytics: Students
will obtain a deep knowledge of today’s health
management systems and their pitfalls. Importantly,
they will apply high ethical standards and propose
draft policies for dealing with big data applied to
health management. A key objective of the MDA-
HM program is to foster a strong understanding of
health management values, policies, challenges and
opportunities, as well as their impact on health.
Prospectus 2021/2022
Curriculum
A 33-credit program taught in English typically
over two years, that includes:
` Four core courses (12 credits)
The core courses are:
` Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
in Healthcare
` Principles of Health Informatics
` Computational Bioinformatics
` Research Methods and Ethics in Health
and Genomics
` Four elective courses from the College of Science
and Engineering and College of Health and Life
Sciences with emphasis on health management
` Research Thesis (9 credits) or
` Applied project (6 credits) and an extra
elective course
` One graduate research seminar
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College Programs
Division of Information and Computing Technology
Master of Information Systems
in Health Management
The Master of Information Systems in Health
Management is a unique program designed to prepare
students for professional roles in the design and
management of information systems and services
in healthcare organizations.
While Qatar has already started the digitization
of health records and implementation of digital-
based data collection and storage systems, there is
limited access to expertise in implementation and
management of such health information systems.
The Master of Science in Information Systems for
Health Management addresses the shortage in
skilled resources with expertise in health information
systems, which is urgently required, as highlighted in
the National E-Health and Data Management Strategy
commissioned by the Ministry of Public Health in 2015.
Graduates of this program will be able to pursue a
variety of career paths in different healthcare settings,
including hospitals, clinics, primary care facilities,
national health services, physician offices, insurance
providers, long-term care organizations, pharmacies,
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IT companies, industries linked to health information
and management functions, health information and
research centers.
Program Focus
The Master of Information Systems in Health
Management emphasizes teaching principles and
methodologies of information system management,
health informatics, health record systems, and health
data management. The program develops students’
technical and managerial skills to organize and
implement information-based healthcare systems.
Through active collaboration with healthcare sectors
and government ministries in Qatar, the program
will provide industry-based projects and internships
to students.
Graduates of this program are equipped to:
` Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the
technological infrastructure needed to deploy
healthcare solutions including quality of services,
privacy, and security aspects.
College of Science and Engineering
` Assess the information technology resources
needed to deploy healthcare solutions that meet
the needs of the local community.
` Analyze, design, implement, and test technical
solutions that include database and data
communication components.
` Evaluate the performance of technical solutions
to guarantee the delivery of services over time.
` Manage technical solutions given local constraints,
organizational context, and policies relating
to health.
Curriculum
A 33-credit program, taught in English over two years,
which includes:
` Four core courses (12 credits)
` Information Technology Project Management
` Information Systems Analysis and Design
` Information Systems Management
` Healthcare Information Systems
Prospectus 2021/2022
` Five elective courses (15 credits), covering the
fundamentals of storing, accessing, processing
and protecting health information that will help
students to apply effective data integration
and implementation – such as advanced data
management systems, security risk analysis,
biostatistics and bioinformatics, principles
of health informatics, data science tools and
applications, interaction design for healthcare,
computer and network security, network forensics,
data warehousing, security of clinical information
systems, enterprise systems, and decision analysis
and decision support systems.
` Industrial project (6 credits), offers a route for
students to further develop real-world, practical
problem-solving experience
` One graduate research seminar
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College Programs
Division of Information and Computing Technology
Master of Science in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a multidisciplinary field addressing
issues that ensure secure and reliable operations
at all levels of interconnected computing and
networking systems. The Master of Science in
Cybersecurity is designed to train graduate scholars,
professionals, entrepreneurs, leaders, and researchers
in the advanced knowledge and skills required to
fully understand and implement the technologies,
tools, management methods, and policy issues
related to cybersecurity.
This Master of Science program not only covers
multidisciplinary fields related to cybersecurity
technology but also examines policy, ethics, and
management related to IT security and cyber
threats. The program leverages strong partnerships
and collaborations both within HBKU and beyond
the university. Delivery of the program involves
collaborations with HBKU’s research institutes,
most notably with QBRI.
This program also builds on work with industrial and
governmental partners, both local and international,
who are currently working on critical projects aimed
38
at providing solutions to address global challenges
and lead to a safer cyber world, in support of Qatar’s
aspirations in this area.
The program offers its students the option of
either completing a research thesis or working on
an industrial project. The thesis requires in-depth
theoretical and research components, possibly leading
to a scientific publication, co-authored by the student
in a top venue, while the industrial project offers a
route for students to further develop real-world
problem-solving experience.
The program includes a core course in leadership
and innovation, ensuring that all graduates are
equipped with the skills and knowledge to assume
leading roles within academic, governmental, and non-
governmental organizations.
Program Focus
` The development of extensive and advanced
knowledge in the field of cybersecurity, covering
major areas such as applied cryptography,
computer and network security, secure software/
hardware systems.
College of Science and Engineering
` A multi-faceted curriculum covering multidisciplinary
aspects that are not only related to cybersecurity
technology but also cover policy, management,
and ethics.
` Hands-on experience with real-world projects
related to secure software and hardware design
and implementation, secure mobile systems,
information security, risk analysis, computer and
network forensics, among others.
` A research thesis or industrial project involving
original work related to cybersecurity, guided
by world-class faculty members from HBKU, its
research institutes, and other stakeholders.
Curriculum
A 33-credit program taught in English, typically over
two years, that includes:
` Four core courses that provide students coming
from diverse backgrounds with a coherent learning
environment to tackle issues in cybersecurity.
The core courses are:
` Research Methods and Ethics in ICT
` Applied Cryptography
` Computer and Network Security
` Security Risk Analysis
Prospectus 2021/2022
` Four elective courses covering engineering and
computer science topics, in addition to a variety
of cybersecurity electives that provide students
with a solid base and a depth of knowledge,
which fully enable them to understand different
aspects of cybersecurity. Additionally, there will
be the opportunity to take an elective focusing
on entrepreneurship.
` One semester of graduate research seminars
aimed at expanding students’ horizons by
offering a broad range of topics, through talks
by invited experts and presentations from those
working in industry, research institutes, academia,
and government institutions and organizations.
` A nine-credit research thesis or a six-credit
industrial project – selecting the industrial
project would require the student to choose
a further elective.
39
College Programs
Division of Information and Computing Technology
Master of Science in Data Science
and Engineering
The Master of Science program in Data Science and
Engineering aims to provide students with a strong
foundation in data engineering, ‘big data’ science,
and data analysis. The program integrates the
knowledge, expertise and educational assets of
HBKU and its research institutes in data collection,
management and analytics, and scalable data-driven
knowledge discovery, as well as the fundamental
concepts behind these techniques.
The program aims to equip students with state-of-the-
art methods and theory related to the next generation
of ‘big data’ technology. It offers its participants
the option of either completing a research thesis
or working on an industrial project.
40
Program Focus
` Fundamental knowledge in data science, engineering
and technology, spanning areas such as applied
statistics, machine learning, and technological
tools such as cloud platforms for large-scale data
analysis.
` Hands-on experience in real-world projects related
to scalable big data collection, storage,
management, analysis and mining, as well as
knowledge extraction and discovery.
` Research thesis or industrial project involving
original work related to data science and
engineering, guided by world-class faculty members
from CSE and from HBKU’s research institutes.
College of Science and Engineering
Curriculum
A 33-credit program, taught in English, typically over
two years, that includes:
` Four core courses that provide students from diverse
backgrounds with a coherent learning environment
to tackle issues in data science and engineering.
The core courses are:
` Research Methods and Ethics in ICT
` Statistics for Science and Engineering
` Advanced Data Management Systems
` Applied Data Analytics
` Four elective courses covering some engineering
and science fundamentals in addition to a variety
of data science and engineering electives, providing
students with a solid base and depth to fully
understand different aspects of data science and
engineering, and the interrelations between them.
Prospectus 2021/2022
` One semester of graduate research seminars
aimed at expanding students’ horizons by offering
a broad range of topics covered through invited
talks and presentations from industry, research
institutes, academia, and government institutions
and organizations.
` Students are also recommended to take
a machine-learning course as an elective.
` A nine-credit research thesis or six-credit
industrial project.
` The program offers flexibility by enabling students
to focus on different areas of interest through the
choice of electives and projects related to data
science and engineering, such as data collection,
storage, management, analysis, and knowledge
extraction and discovery.
41
College Programs
Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences
Master of Science in Sport
and Entertainment Management
The Master of Science in Sport and Entertainment
Management (MSEM) is offered by Hamad Bin Khalifa
University’s College of Science and Engineering (CSE),
working toward a joint degree with the University of
South Carolina (UofSC). Identified as the first master’s
degree in sports and entertainment management
in Qatar and one of a few in the MENA region, the
program trains and prepares students for management
and leadership roles in the sports and entertainment
industries. In 2018, USC’s MSEM program was ranked
number 6 worldwide by Sport Business International.
The MSEM aims to support Qatar’s objectives by
qualifying professionals with a variety of skills and
experiences covering the legal, financial, as well as the
operational and management aspects of the sports and
entertainment industries. Graduates of the program
could pursue a variety of career paths in the private
and public sports sectors including sponsorship,
marketing, event management, facility management,
TV broadcasting, and academia and research.
42
Program Focus
The MSEM provide students a comprehensive and
holistic overview of the sports and entertainment
industries, as well as a multi-disciplinary skill set which
will enable them to address the complex challenges of
the global sports and entertainment sector. Additionally,
students will be able to develop and explain workable
solutions to various industry problems.
Graduates of this program are equipped to:
` Apply learned concepts and theory to demonstrate
an understanding of the nature of the sports and
entertainment industries.
` Understand and have an appreciation for how
research is used by and is beneficial for sports and
entertainment organizations and/or academics.
` Demonstrate an ability to develop and explain
workable solutions to various industry problems
related to sports and entertainment.
College of Science and Engineering
Curriculum
The MSEM is a 36-credit hour degree program,
taught over two years in English, and designed to
train students for management and leadership roles
in the sports, entertainment, and venue management
industries. Successful students will have skills at the
intersection between management, finance, and law.
The acquired skills will enable graduates to efficiently
deal with several challenges within the sports and
entertainment industries. It is possible for students to
choose between thesis and non-thesis options.
Thesis Option:
Students electing the thesis option must complete 27
credit hours of required courses, complete at least nine
credit hours of electives.
Prospectus 2021/2022
Non-Thesis Option:
Students electing the non-thesis option must complete
21 credit hours of required courses, complete at least
15 credit hours of elective course work from which a
maximum of nine credit hours may be taken outside of
the program, and pass a comprehensive examination
upon completion of all course work. Students selecting
the non-thesis option may (but are not required to)
enroll in a field project in Hospitality, Retail, or Sport
Management for six elective credit hours.
Required courses will cover topics such as: Venue
Management: Principles and Practices, Management in
the Sport and Entertainment Industry, Advanced Sport
and the Law, Principles of Sport and Entertainment
Marketing, Sport and Entertainment Finance, Statistical
Methods, and Applied Research in Hospitality, Retail,
and Sport Management.
43
College Programs
Division of Information and Computing Technology
Bachelor of Science
in Computer Engineering
The aim of HBKU’s Bachelor of Science in Computer
Engineering program is to produce globally competitive
computer engineering professionals for Qatar, the
region, and the wider world.
The program is built on HBKU’s unique model of
developing interdisciplinary programs that draw on the
expert knowledge of its partner institutions alongside its
own faculty. This means that students are able to take
courses provided by Texas A&M University at Qatar and
Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar in addition to the
comprehensive range of course offerings from HBKU.
Students explore the design of real-world computer
engineering systems and are exposed to real-life
problems and challenges through a design component
that is integrated into the program, as well as through a
final year project.
44
The dynamic multidisciplinary approach of the
curriculum equips the program’s graduates with an
exceptionally well-rounded understanding of computer
engineering, ensuring that they have all the necessary
skills needed for them to go on to explore a wide range
of rewarding careers or further study.
Program Focus
` The cross-disciplinary aspects of computer science
and electronic engineering.
` A thorough understanding of computing devices,
systems, and tools – ranging from specialized
embedded processors to communication networks
to software development.
` The skills needed to design a computer-based
system. The application of mathematics
in engineering.
` The role of hardware and software tools
in solving engineering problems.
` Ethical and professional responsibility
in computer engineering.
` The role of computer engineering and of computer
engineers in society, both at a local and a global level.
College of Science and Engineering
Curriculum Each student is required to complete a final year
A full-time program, taught in English over project as a member of a team of two to four
four years, comprising: classmates. The goal of this project is to give
` General educational courses (in humanities, students the opportunity to integrate and synthesize
history, and creative arts) the theoretical and experiential knowledge they have
` Mathematics and science courses built up over the duration of the program.
` Core computer engineering courses
` Core curriculum electives The final year project is conducted under the
` General engineering electives supervision of faculty.
` English communication electives
Typically, grade assessments are based on a final
examination, mid-term examinations, quizzes, and
assignments that include project and/or laboratory
work. Credits are earned semester-by-semester, of
which there are eight (two per year, spread across
four years).
Prospectus 2021/2022 45
College Programs

Division of Information and Computing Technology

Accelerated BS and MS Option

The computer engineering program at HBKU
provides qualified undergraduate students with the
opportunity to apply to an accelerated path of study.
The study plan is designed to allow students to
graduate with both a Bachelor of Science degree in
Computer Engineering and a Master of Science in
Data Science and Engineering, or a Master of Science
degree in Cybersecurity, in five years instead of six.
Students who are eligible for such an option will
undergo extensive research training and will have
the opportunity to enroll in research thesis work
under the supervision of HBKU faculty.
They will also be offered the opportunity to intern
at one of HBKU’s research institutes, including Qatar
Computing Research Institute (QCRI).

Through the accelerated program, qualified students

in their senior year of undergraduate studies will be
admitted to the master’s degree program and will
be offered the opportunity to take graduate-level
classes that can be used to fulfill the master’s degree
requirement, hence enhancing their research capabilities
by exposing them to high-level graduate courses.

46 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 47

Admissions
Admissions

Admission Requirements

Applicants seeking admission to the College should have a bachelor’s degree, while applicants to Applicants are required to submit an IELTS score
of Science and Engineering graduate programs the PhD programs should have a master’s degree. of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 79 to demonstrate their
at HBKU should have a strong academic record Applicants should check the program they are applying proficiency in English. Further details about the
(minimum 3.0 GPA out of 4.0) from a recognized for in order to make sure that they have majored in one of language proficiency requirement and the process
university. Applicants to the master’s programs the disciplines mentioned under “required field of study.” to seek exemption (where this is an option) are
available on the website: admissions.hbku.edu.qa
Apply to Required field of study
PhD Computer Science and Engineering Computer science, computer engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, Applicants to all PhD programs at the College
information systems, mathematics and related fields.
of Science and Engineering are required to submit
PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Engineering, computer science, information systems, business, finance, economics,
Management management, mathematics and other related fields. Students are required to
a GRE General test score at the time of application.
demonstrate strong analytical skills. While the GRE is not required for admission to the
PhD in Sustainable Energy Engineering and science disciplines preferred. Students from architecture, urban master’s programs at the College of Science and
planning, business, economics, policy, and social sciences demonstrating strong
PhD Sustainable Environment
analytical skills will also be considered. Engineering, a strong GRE score will help strengthen
Master of Science in Data Science Computer science, information systems, engineering, mathematics and related fields. the applicant’s admission material.
and Engineering
Master of Science in Cybersecurity Applicants with prior research experience are
Master of Data Analytics in Health Computer science, information systems, electrical engineering, mathematics, statistics preferred, especially for the PhD programs.
Management or related fields. Applicants from health and medical fields may be considered provided
they have some knowledge of computer programming and relevant work experience.
Master of Information Systems Computer science, information systems, computer engineering. Applicants from health Further information about admission requirements
in Health Management and medical fields with relevant work experience may also be considered. is available at admissions.hbku.edu.qa
Master of Science in Logistics Engineering, computer science, information systems, business, finance, economics,
and Supply Chain Management management, mathematics and other related fields. Students are required to
demonstrate strong analytical skills.
Master of Science in Sport and Sport related degrees, management, finance, engineering, business and related fields.
Entertainment Management Applicants who have studied other fields may be considered.
Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Engineering and science disciplines preferred. Students from architecture, urban
planning. business, economics, policy and social sciences demonstrating strong
Master of Science in Sustainable
analytical skills will also be considered.
Environment

50 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 51

Admissions
Application Requirements
Application:
A completed online application form:
admissions.hbku.edu.qa
Academic transcripts:
Official electronic copies of transcripts should be
submitted as part of the online application. Final
transcripts and graduation statements are required
for all previous university studies. All transcripts
submitted should include an explanation of the
grading system. For those who have not completed
their current studies, transcripts must include results
from the last completed semester of coursework.
Transcripts in languages other than English or Arabic
must be accompanied with an official translation.
Applicants who are admitted to the program based
on copies of or incomplete transcripts will be required
to provide original transcripts upon enrollment in
order to register for courses.
52
Standardized test results:
Official copies (where required) must be sent directly
to HBKU. Please refer to the institutional codes below:
` GRE: 7551
` GMAT: H6S
` TOEFL: 4981
` IELTS: No code required. Students should ask the
IELTS center where they tested to send the IELTS
TRF to Hamad Bin Khalifa University
Applicants should also submit copies of their test
scores with the online application.
College of Science and Engineering
Letters of recommendation: Resume/curriculum vitae:
Applicants should submit two letters of Applicants should submit a copy of their
recommendation, one of which must be from current resume or curriculum vitae as part
an academic referee. of the online application.
Please visit admissions.hbku.edu.qa for further This should include the following information:
information about the submission process. ` Academic qualifications
` Professional experience
Personal statement of interest: ` Publications
Applicants should submit a personal statement ` Research projects
as part of the online application. The statement ` Academic awards or honors
should explain why the candidate is applying to the ` Conference presentations
program, and how their studies will contribute to the
achievement of their personal objectives, including Identification document:
information about the applicant’s research interests All applicants should submit an electronic copy
and achievements (minimum of 300, maximum of their passport as part of the online application.
of 500 words). Nationals and residents of Qatar should also submit
their valid Qatari ID.
Personal statements that are incomplete or below
the minimum word count will not be accepted.
Prospectus 2021/2022 53
 Student Funding

The College of Science and Engineering

provides opportunities for funding on a
competitive basis. Further information will
be provided to applicants who are admitted
to the program.

54 College of Science and Engineering Prospectus 2021/2022 55

 Contact Information

cse.hbku.edu.qa

Admission inquiries: General inquiries:

Division of Engineering Management cse@hbku.edu.qa
and Decision Sciences inquiry@hbku.edu.qa
admissions.cse.emds@hbku.edu.qa
P.O. Box: 34110
Division of Information and Doha – Qatar
Computing Technology
admissions.cse.ict@hbku.edu.qa

Division of Sustainable Development HBKU

admissions.cse.sus@hbku.edu.qa HBKU

Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Hamad Bin Khalifa University

56 College of Science and Engineering

hbku.edu.qa

HBKU
Hamad Bin Khalifa University